Paul Hawkins

The Montezuma Community Schools Implementation Plan outlines six key outcomes focused on improving teaching and learning through the Iowa Core Curriculum. These outcomes address systems-level needs by engaging leadership, schools, support agencies, and the community. The plan emphasizes aligning content, instruction, and assessment; using data to monitor and improve alignment; providing professional development focused on effective instruction; and implementing effective instructional practices to ensure high levels of learning for all students. The plan includes specific targets, actions, activities, resources, and timelines for achieving each outcome, with a focus on continuous improvement and stakeholder engagement.

The board meeting included presentations from elementary and secondary principals, as well as a review of the bus inspection report. Key decisions included approving a construction bid from Merit Construction for $7,294,400, an asbestos abatement bid from Active Thermal Concepts for $68,527, and the sale of $2.1 million in bonds. A new secondary English teacher was appointed, and the speech contract of an existing teacher was amended. The superintendent discussed legislative issues and a long-range plan for PPEL and Sales Tax funds. Closed sessions were held for the superintendent's evaluation and negotiations.

The board meeting included presentations on classroom technology, elementary and JH/HS events, and construction updates. Key decisions included approving pay application #11 for construction services, Change Order 008 for electrical, gravel, and counter door work, and the 2014-15 school calendar. A public hearing was held on the Early Start Calendar Waiver, with a subsequent motion to request the waiver due to potential negative educational impact. Technology purchases for the 2014-15 school year and the FY13 audit report were also approved. Reports were given on winter MAP testing, board policies, and the Iowa Core Implementation Plan.

The meeting included presentations on student internships and school updates, including spring assessments, data day, professional development, and handbook expectations. The board approved several items: a light and power sharing agreement, a boosters' trip, a master contract for certified staff, the certified and classified staff handbooks, breakfast and lunch prices, and a search firm contract. Several staff resignations and appointments were also approved. Reports were given on senior scholarship winners, the Montezuma graduation rate, and legislative updates.

The board meeting covered various topics, including presentations on junior high/high school and elementary school events. Key decisions included approving Ahlers & Cooney, PC as legal counsel and The Record as the official newspaper for the 2013-14 school year. The board also approved the enrollment of a student through the Future Leaders Exchange program, a payment application to Merit Construction, a change order, and depository banks and balance limitations for the upcoming school year. Several staff appointments were approved, and reports were given on the audit, enrollment, the Council for Educator Development, the district's Action Plan, and construction updates. A hearing date was set for a student disciplinary issue.